Dozens of Groups Accuse Trump DOJ of Sabotaging Alex Pretti Death Investigation

Coalition claims federal authorities are shielding agents from accountability in fatal shooting of intensive care nurse.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A broad coalition of organizations has accused the Trump administration of trying to sabotage an investigation into the killing of Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse who was fatally shot by federal immigration enforcement agents last month. The groups claim the FBI is denying Minnesota law enforcement access to evidence, and they warn this sets a dangerous precedent of federal agents operating with impunity.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing tensions between federal and local authorities over investigations of use-of-force incidents involving federal law enforcement. The groups argue this could undermine public trust and accountability if federal agents are seen as above the law.

The details

The Not Above the Law Coalition, which includes the ACLU, CREW, and other advocacy groups, says the Trump administration is breaking with standard practices by not cooperating with local police and prosecutors. They demand mandatory independent investigations for all federal use of deadly force, recognition of state authority to investigate federal misconduct, and consequences for constitutional violations.

  • Alex Pretti was fatally shot by federal immigration agents last month.
  • The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is continuing its probe into Pretti's killing, even without federal assistance.
  • Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty says her office can still bring charges against federal officers if they have enough evidence, despite lack of cooperation from the Trump administration.

The players

Not Above the Law Coalition

A broad coalition of organizations that have accused the Trump administration of sabotaging the investigation into Alex Pretti's death.

Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA)

The state law enforcement agency continuing its probe into Pretti's killing, despite lack of federal cooperation.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty

The county prosecutor who says her office can still bring charges against federal officers if they have enough evidence, despite lack of cooperation from the Trump administration.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“By blocking Minnesota's investigation and attempting to shield agents from accountability, the Trump administration is sending a clear message: federal law enforcement can kill with absolute impunity. This move attempts to place federal agents above the law and beyond the reach of justice.”

— Not Above the Law Coalition (rawstory.com)

“We demand immediate action. Mandatory independent investigations for all federal use of deadly force, recognition of state authority to investigate federal misconduct, federal cooperation with local investigators, and real consequences for constitutional violations. Without accountability, we allow federal forces to operate with impunity and face no consequences for taking American lives.”

— Not Above the Law Coalition (rawstory.com)

What’s next

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) says it will present its findings on the Pretti shooting to prosecutorial authorities for review, even without federal cooperation. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty also says her office can still bring charges against federal officers if they have enough evidence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between federal and local authorities over investigations of use-of-force incidents involving federal law enforcement. The coalition's accusations raise concerns about a lack of accountability and the potential for federal agents to operate with impunity, which could further erode public trust in law enforcement.